What is the Best Product for Acne and Dark Spots for African American Skin?

Doctor Answers 1

Acne treatments in African American skin

April 14th, 2012

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There are a number of variables to consider when treating acne in patients with types V and VI skin. Primarily, treatment depends on the type of acne the patient has. If the acne is mostly inflammatory papules, nodules and cysts, topical treatments usually have to be done in conjunction with an oral medication. Topical usually do not reach deep enough to treat nodules and cysts.

in addition, ff the skin is generally dry, care must be taken with irritating products as they can cause further darkening. Oily skin, on the other hand, can do well with more drying treatments.

Products that can lighten dark spots include benzoyl peroxide, retinoinds, such as Retin A (tretinoin), Differin (adapalene) and Tazorac (tazarotene), and Finacea (azelaic acid). These are usually paired with anti-inflammatory topicals. Azelaic acid is particularly good at helping to fade dark spots due to acne.

I usually start more irritating treatments at twice a week and increase slowly to make sure that there is minimal irritation.

One other key point is that acne lesions should not be squeezed or picked. Picking or squeezing leads to dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and can lead to scarring of the skin.

Acne Treatment Pictures

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